Pompeo criticizes Turkey’s unilateral actions in letter to Greek FM

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sent a letter to his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in which he criticizes Turkey’s unilateral actions while describing Greece as a pillar of stability in the region, Kathimerini says citing diplomatic sources in Athens.

In his letter, which is a response to a recent letter sent by the Greek foreign minister, Pompeo reportedly reiterates American objections to Turkey’s energy exploration in areas where Greece reserves the right to extend its territorial waters from 6 to 12 nautical miles.

Pompeo reportedly cautions against unilateral actions in the area, while stressing that coercion, intimidation and military activity are not the way to resolve disputes between states.

While praising Greece for seeking to resolve bilateral differences through dialogue and on the basis of international law, Pompeo reportedly adds that Athens is taking all necessary steps to avoid a heated incident.

Pompeo concludes saying that the US and Greece both pursue stability and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as cooperation between states on the basis of international law.